By GARETT VALCOURT
GARETT VALCOURT | The Advertiser
A new Florida law that went into effect on January 1, 2025, prohibits children under the age of 14 from using social media platforms. Known as House Bill 3, the legislation aims to address concerns over the potential psychological and social effects of social media on minors.
Under the new law, social media companies must delete accounts belonging to users under 14 years old within 90 days. Failure to comply may result in fines of up to $50,000 per violation. However, children aged 14 and 15 may maintain accounts if their parents or guardians provide explicit consent.
Florida Attorney General Ashley Moody has announced a delay in enforcing the law until late February 2025. This delay allows time for a judge to rule on a motion for a preliminary injunction filed by opponents of the law.
The legislation, officially titled Online Protections for Minors, received bipartisan support in the Florida Legislature and was signed into law by Governor Ron DeSantis in 2024. With its enactment, Florida joins 11 other states implementing similar measures.
Supporters of the law highlight its potential to reduce negative outcomes associated with excessive social media use, including low self-esteem and depression. Holmes County Superintendent Buddy Brown compared the issue to the use of any tool, noting, “There are many tools available in the world, a car in the hands of a responsible, sober, licensed, and insured driver is an incredibly useful tool. However, that same car can become a deadly weapon when driven by someone impaired or reckless. The same principle applies to anything we use—it comes with a responsibility.” Brown added, “The issue with children and social media is that they often struggle to make autonomous and informed decisions due to a lack of experience. They may connect with anyone they want, which can lead to problems. In fact, I would estimate that 75% of the conflicts we handle in schools, particularly issues between students, stem from interactions on social media.”
Washington County Superintendent Thomas Register echoed these concerns, stating, “It certainly has a useful purpose in providing information; however, on the detrimental side, you have children that have access to social media that don’t know how to handle responsibility.”
The law has faced criticism from various groups, including two lawsuits that claim the restrictions violate First Amendment rights. Critics argue that the law may overstep parental authority and restrict freedoms.
The legislation adds to the ongoing national debate over the role of social media in the lives of minors. Proponents argue the restrictions could curb addiction-like behaviors linked to dopamine responses, while critics warn against excessive government regulation.
As the legal challenges proceed, the outcomes could set a significant precedent for other states contemplating similar restrictions on social media use for minors.
Staff Report 